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...cont'd
from 3
to 6
grade in four elementary schools. The data suggests a cumulative
rd
th
effect of minimal hearing loss on academic achievement and that many of
these students would qualify for services that LD students receive.
Two instructional techniques were applied in the study: teacher voice
amplification and small group instruction. In each of the four schools, one
classroom in each grade was equipped with equipment to amplify the teacher's
voice. The teacher wore a lightweight wireless microphone that projected a
consistent signal approximately 10 dB above classroom noise levels. The
remaining students were in non-amplified classrooms and received supplemental
instruction individually or in small groups.
All grade levels that received sound field amplification significantly increased
SRA academic achievement test standard scores. This change was equal to or
greater than the scores obtained from resource room instruction. The following
reasons prove sound field amplification to be more cost effective:
1. Staff utilization (requiring fewer personnel to achieve academic gains).
2. Lower initial and continuing instructional costs.
3. More legally defensible when considered within the context of the least
restrictive environment mandates.
classroomaudio@us.panasonic.com
877.268.7215
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